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Celtic forward Kelechi Iheanacho’s dream of returning to the Super Eagles squad has suffered a setback after he picked up what could be a serious hamstring injury in Celtic’s 2-1 Europa League win over Sturm Graz, Footynaija.com reports.
The Nigerian striker lasted only four minutes before going down clutching his thigh and was immediately replaced by youngster Johnny Kenny.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers confirmed after the match that the injury appeared concerning.
“The first two don’t look great. It looks like a hamstring but okay that’s what happened, but the two young guys who came in did really well,” Rodgers told TNT Sports, referring to Iheanacho and defender Alistair Johnston, who also limped off.
Iheanacho has been in good form since joining Celtic in the summer, scoring three goals and providing one assist in eight appearances across all competitions. That form had raised hopes of a recall to the Nigeria national team ahead of their playoff clash with Gabon.
However, head coach Eric Chelle, who last called him up for the Unity Cup in London, has since preferred other strikers.
Iheanacho was left out of the September and October World Cup qualifiers, and though Terem Moffi’s recent injury might have opened a door, this latest setback could close it again.
Chelle still has attacking options in Paul Onuachu and Gift Orban, who have both impressed in Turkey and Italy respectively.
